EAST MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP) _ More hunters in Vermont have access to crossbows under new state regulations.

The Times Argus reports the state Fish and Wildlife Department announced in June that it's permitting anyone over 50 years old with a hunting license to legally hunt with a crossbow starting in the 2016 hunting season. Currently, hunters need to be disabled to get a crossbow permit.

Many hunters at Whistling Arrow Archery Club's Crossbow Demo Day in East Montpelier on Saturday said it was the first time they used a crossbow. Many say it's lighter and simple to use.

R & L Archery pro-staff member Josh Robitille says crossbow puts less strain on hunters' shoulders than a vertical bow, which can weigh up to 70 pounds.

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Information from: The Times Argus, http://www.timesargus.com/